So-I decided to replace my zippers with paracord on my tactical backpack.Why, you ask?1. Paracord looks better!2. Paracord is more durable.3. Paracord zippers can be unraveled for use in survival purposes.4. Also, Paracord is cheap and easy to switch for regular zippers.5. Finally, the most important reason: paracord is awesome!Each 1 1/2 inch zipper holds about 3 1/2 feet of Paracord, and my backpack has 8 zippers...The only requirement is that one piece of paracord can fit through the gap. If the gaps are too small, you could try micro paracord.

The cost of this for me was $0 because I already had the materials. Paracord is typically $3-10 for 100 feet depending on the place you buy it. The generally accepted website to get quality paracord is supplycaptain.com, but paracord is for sale at Army-Navy Surplus stores and on amazon, as well as countless websites.

This is my first Instructable, and I hope you like it!

Step 1: Materials

The materials needed are: Paracord: for 1.5 inches of zipper, I used about 5 feet total, but with about 1 1/2 feet excess.Cut the paracord into two lengths of equal size, or about 2 1/2 feet each to be sure.ScissorsLighter: to burn the ends of the paracord.

Step 2: Starting The Weave

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First, cut off the old zipper pull.Then, thread one of the paracord lengths through the hole in the zipper, making sure that there is an equal length of cord on each side. Let's call this Cord A.Lay the other cord across the zipper, perpendicular to the other cord.Let's call this Cord BNext, fold one end of Cord A over Cord Bas shown in the 5th picture. Fold the other side of Cord A over Cord B, but the other way. It's hard to explain, but imagine making a kind of S-shape.Finally, you weave Cord B, moving each end over the first "rung" and under the second, then do the same on the other end of the cord.A good way to think of it is a bit like reclosing a cardboard box by pushing each flap under the one to the right, and that one under the one to the right, and...Tighten the weave by pulling on each of the cords at the same time.

Step 3: Continue Weaving

Continue the same pattern again.Make sure to refer to the pictures!Weave the same pattern until the zipper pull is the desired length.

Step 4: Cutting And Melting The Cord

Tighten the weave and then cut the cords, one at a time.After you cut one, melt the end with the lighter and press the melted end into the cord with the bottom of the lighter-not your hands!Do that for all four cords.

Step 5: Done!

Congratulations! You are done!Now...I've got 6 more zippers to replace.Bye bye!P.S.( I am entering this into the Paracord Challenge. Please Vote for Me If You Liked It! Thanks:)